Ventilated crate for freezing and thawing meat

ABSTRACT

A crate includes a base and a plurality of walls extending upward from the base. A plurality of ventilation channels are formed in the base. The ventilation channels project upward relative to an upper support surface of the base. The ventilation channels include apertures therethrough.

BACKGROUND

In bulk chicken processing of bulk marinade bags, it is desirable to flash freeze bulk bags for storage and optimal freshness through the supply chain. A result of the flash freezing process is vertical growth of the bulk marinade bags of chicken. Therefore, it is desirable that a container has a taller storage height during the flash freezing process to expose the surface of the bags to forced air cooling.

It is also common for the bags to leak from packages during transit. Therefore, although ventilation is desired, it would also be desirable to retain fluids in the container.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, leveraging a bail arm container increases the vertical clearance from the base of a container above to the container below and create a gap to promote enhanced airflow in a vertical stack of containers. This feature can reduce the freezing time by 20-35%. In addition to faster flash freezing, the taller position clearance height reduces product damage that may occur as a result of product expanding and contacting ribs or contours of a rigid plastic container. The taller position may also provide a faster thawing time by 20-35%, which allows for the chicken to thaw during transit without any direct contact on the chicken from the container above. Once the container is thawed the bail can be stowed in the home position reducing the height of a stack of product prior to use.

In order to retain fluids in the container, the bases may have fluid retention coupled with air flow channels running the length and width of the container.

The airflow channels create defined stacking cavities matching the size of the bulk marinade bags of chicken that aid in extracting heat from the chicken during the flash freezing process. The heat extraction is achieved with vents on top of each flow channel and holes on the ends of each flow channel that are open to the exterior of the container length and width.

A crate according to one embodiment includes a base and a plurality of walls extending upward from the base. A plurality of ventilation channels are formed in the base. The ventilation channels project upward relative to an upper support surface of the base. The ventilation channels include apertures therethrough.

The plurality of ventilation channels may include a longitudinal ventilation channel and a lateral ventilation channel crossing the longitudinal ventilation channel.

A plurality of packages may be placed on the upper support surface of the base between the ventilation channels.

The ventilation channels may open downward of the base.

In some embodiments, the crate includes at least one bail. Each bail has a support portion and a pair of arms extending from the support portion. The pair of arms are pivotably connected to the plurality of walls and pivotable between a support position over the base and a retracted position.

The crate may include at least one support channel defining a recess on a bottom surface of the base. Each support channel may be aligned with the support portion of the bail when the bail is in the support position.

The plurality of walls may include corner portions, such that the bail may be supported on the corner portions when in the retracted position. The plurality of walls may include portions of reduced height relative to the corner portions.

Each of the plurality of walls may include one of the portions of reduced height.

The plurality of walls may include handle openings therethrough.

In some embodiments, the plurality of walls are hingeably connected to the base and pivotable between an upright position and a collapsed position on the base.

The plurality of ventilation channels may include an end aperture aligned with an aperture through one of the plurality of walls. Optionally, the ventilation channels may extend completely across the base and are open on opposed edges of the base.

The plurality of walls may include an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the lower portion is configured to be received in the upper portion of an identical crate.

In another embodiment, a crate includes a base, a pair of side walls extending upward from the side edges of the base and a pair of end walls extending upward from the end edges of the base. A longitudinal ventilation channel is formed in the base and extends from a first end edge of the base to a second end edge of the base. A pair of lateral ventilation channels are formed in the base and extend from a first side edge of the base to a second side edge of the base. The longitudinal ventilation channel and the lateral ventilation channels including apertures therethrough to provide ventilation between the base and the interior of the crate.

The the longitudinal ventilation channel and the pair of lateral ventilation channels may be open downward of the crate across their entire length.

In some embodiments, the longitudinal ventilation channel and the lateral ventilation channels may divide the base into a 2×3 array of support areas.

The plurality of walls may include corner portions and portions at which uppermost surfaces of the plurality of walls have reduced height relative to the corner portions. Optionally, each of the plurality of walls may include one of the portions of reduced height.

The plurality of walls may include handle openings therethrough.

The longitudinal ventilation channel and the pair of lateral ventilation channels project upward relative to an upper support surface of the base. The upper support surface of the base does not have any openings therethrough.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a crate according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of an interior portion of the crate of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows the crate of FIG. 1 with the bails in the support position.

FIG. 4 is an end view of the crate of FIG. 3 with an identical crate stacked thereon.

FIG. 5 is a side view of the crates of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a portion of the side wall of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a section view taken laterally through the stacked crates of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7A shows the stacked crates of FIG. 7 with a plurality of bags stored therein.

FIG. 8 is a top view of the crate of FIG. 3.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the stacked crates but with the bails in the retracted position on the end walls.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a crate according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of an interior portion of the crate of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 shows the crate of FIG. 10 with the bails in the support position.

FIG. 13 is an end view of the crate of FIG. 12 with an identical crate stacked thereon.

FIG. 14 is a side view of the crates of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of a portion of the side wall of FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a section view taken laterally through the stacked crates.

FIG. 16A shows the stacked crates of FIG. 16 with a plurality of bags stored therein.

FIG. 17 is a top view of the crate of FIG. 12.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the crates of FIG. 14 but with the bails in the retracted position on the end walls.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a crate according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of an interior portion of the crate of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is an end view of the crate of FIG. 19 with an identical crate 210 stacked thereon.

FIG. 22 is a side view of the crates of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is an enlarged view of a portion of the side wall of FIG. 22.

FIG. 24 is a section view taken laterally through the stacked crates.

FIG. 24A shows the stacked crates of FIG. 24 with a plurality of bags stored therein.

FIG. 25 is a top view of the crate of FIG. 19.

FIG. 26 is a bottom perspective view of the crate showing the ventilation channels opening downward of the base.

FIG. 27 shows the crate with the end walls and side walls collapsed onto the base.

FIG. 28 shows a crate 310 according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 29 is an enlarged view of an interior portion of the crate of FIG. 28.

FIG. 30 shows the crate of FIG. 28 with the bails in the support position.

FIG. 31 is an end view of the crate.

FIG. 32 is a side view of the crate.

FIG. 33 is a top view of the crate with the bails in the deployed or support position.

FIG. 34 is a top view of the crate with the bails in the home or retracted position on the end walls.

FIG. 34A shows the crate of FIG. 34 with a plurality of bags stored therein.

FIG. 35 is a bottom perspective view of the crate.

FIG. 36 is a bottom view of the crate.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the crate of FIG. 30 with an identical crate stacked thereon.

FIG. 38 is a side view of the crates of FIG. 37.

FIG. 39 is an end view of the crates of FIG. 37.

FIG. 40 is a partial section view through the stacked crates of FIG. 37.

FIG. 41 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the stacked crates of FIG. 37.

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of the stacked crates but with the bails in the retracted position on the end walls.

FIG. 43 is a side view of the crates of FIG. 42.

FIG. 44 is an end view of the crates of FIG. 42.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A crate 10 according to a first embodiment is shown in to FIG. 1. The crate 10 is a stackable crate 10 having a base 12 integrally molded with side walls 14 and end walls 16. A support or bail 18 is pivotably secured to both side walls 14 adjacent each end wall 16. In FIG. 1, the bails 18 are shown in their retracted or home position. Each bail 18 includes a support portion 20 extending from one side wall 14 to the other. Each bail 18 includes an arm 22 projecting from each end of the support portion 20. Lower ends of the arms 22 are pivotably secured to the side walls 14. The arms 22 are captured between an outer wall portion 26 and an inner wall portion 24 of the side walls 14. The bails 18 can be pivoted onto support surfaces 28 at the upper surfaces of the side walls 14. Handle openings 40 are formed through each end wall 16. Handle openings 44 are formed through each side wall 14.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the base 12 includes a longitudinal ventilation channel 30, which opens downwardly of the crate 10 and extends in the center of the crate 10 from one end wall 16 to the other. In the embodiment shown, the longitudinal ventilation channel 30 is aligned with an aperture 36 in each end wall 16 and is spaced from each end wall 16, but alternatively the channel 30 could extend through each end wall 16, i.e. such that it is open to each end of the crate 10. The longitudinal ventilation channel 30 includes a plurality of apertures 48 therethrough at an uppermost surface thereof (shown better in FIG. 2).

The base 12 further includes a plurality of lateral ventilation channels 32 that may branch perpendicularly from the longitudinal ventilation channel 30 as shown. The lateral ventilation channels 32 open downwardly of the crate 10 and extend from one side wall 14 to the other. In the embodiment shown, each lateral ventilation channel 32 is aligned with an aperture 42 in each side wall 14 and is spaced from each side wall 14, but alternatively the channel 32 could extend through each side wall 14, i.e. such that it is open to each side of the crate 10. Each lateral ventilation channel 32 includes a plurality of apertures 48 therethrough at an uppermost surface thereof (shown better in FIG. 2).

The longitudinal ventilation channel 30 and lateral ventilation channels 32 project upward relative to the upper support surface 13 of the base 12 and are arranged to be positioned between products, such as stacks of products, such as bags of meat, such as bags of chicken, such as shown in FIG. 7A. The products are placed on the base 12 with a longitudinal ventilation channel 30 and/or lateral ventilation channels 32 between each adjacent pair of products. Products may be stacked in these positions defined by the longitudinal ventilation channel 30 and lateral ventilation channels 32. In this manner, ventilation can be delivered more evenly to the stacked products within the crate 10 through the channels 30, 32 and through the apertures 48. This useful for rapid and even cooling or freezing of the products and for rapid and even thawing of the products. The channels 30, 32 and apertures 48 deliver ventilation between the stacks of product.

Additionally, the bottom wall of the base 12 has no openings therethrough and the openings through the end walls 16 and side walls 14 are raised to provide some retention of liquids in the base 12. The apertures 48 are raised above the bottom wall of the base 12, again so that the base 12 will retain liquids.

As shown in FIG. 3, the bails 18 are pivotable to a support position, with the bails 18 supported on the support surfaces 28 of the side wall 14 and with the support portions 20 spaced away from the end walls 16.

Referring to FIG. 3, the end walls 16 each include a portion 52 of reduced height compared to a corner portion 54 of each adjacent side wall 14. Similarly, each side wall 14 includes a central portion 50 of reduced height compared to the corner portion 54. The support surface 28 is formed on the corner portion 54.

FIG. 4 is an end view of the crate 10 of FIG. 3 with an identical crate 10 stacked thereon. The base 12 of the upper crate 10 is supported on the bails 18. This leaves a large ventilation gap between the base 12 of the upper crate 10 and the upper edge of the reduced height portion 52 of each end wall 16. As can also be seen in FIG. 4, an aperture 58 at each end of the longitudinal ventilation channel 30 is aligned with the aperture 36 through each end wall 16. Cold or cool air can be forced through the ventilation gap and through the ventilation channels 30, 32 in the base 12.

FIG. 5 is a side view of the crates 10 of FIG. 4. A large ventilation gap is provided between the base 12 of the upper crate 10 and the upper edge of the reduced height portion 50 of each side wall 14. As can be seen in FIGS. 5 and 6, an aperture 60 at each end of each lateral ventilation channel 32 is aligned with an aperture 42 through each side wall 14.

FIG. 7 is a section view taken laterally through the stacked crates 10. As shown the longitudinal ventilation channel 30 opens downwardly of the base 12 along its entire length and projects above the upper support surface 13 of the base 12. The aperture 58 at each end of the longitudinal ventilation channel 30 aligns with the aperture 36 through the end wall 16. The lateral ventilation channels 32 also open downwardly in the same way. The lateral ventilation channels 32 and longitudinal ventilation channel 30 are both completely open downward along their entire lengths.

FIG. 7A shows the stacked crates 10 of FIG. 7 with a plurality of bags 80 stored therein. The longitudinal ventilation channel 30 and the lateral ventilation channels 32 are between the stacks of bags 80 on the base 12.

FIG. 8 is a top view of the crate 10 of FIG. 3, i.e. with the bails 18 in the support position over the base 12.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the stacked crates 10 but of the bails 18 in the retracted position with the support portions 20 on the end walls 16. In this position, the height of the two stacked crates 10 is reduced and the end and side ventilation gaps are reduced. This position would be used when the crates 10 are empty and being stored or shipped.

A crate 110 according to a second embodiment is shown in FIGS. 10-18. Referring to FIG. 10, the crate 110 is a nestable crate 110 having a base 112 integrally molded with side walls 114 and end walls 116. A support or bail 118 is pivotably secured to both side walls 114 adjacent each end wall 116. In FIG. 10, the bails 118 are shown in their retracted or home position. Each bail 118 includes a support portion 120 extending from one side wall 114 to the other. Each bail 118 includes an arm 122 projecting from each end of the support portion 120. Lower ends of the arms 122 are pivotably secured to the side walls 114. The arms 122 are captured between an outer wall portion 126 and an inner wall portion 124 of the side walls 114. The bails 118 can be pivoted onto support surfaces 128 at the upper support surface 113 of the side walls 114.

The crate 110 is a nestable crate. The crate 110 includes a tapered lower portion 126 that is nestable into the upper portion 127 of an identical crate 110. Handle openings 140 are formed through each end wall 116. Handle openings 144 are formed through each side wall 114.

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the base 112 includes a longitudinal ventilation channel 130, which projects upward relative to the upper support surface 113 of the base 112. The longitudinal ventilation channel 130 opens downwardly of the crate 110 and extends in the center of the crate 110 from one end wall 116 to the other. In the embodiment shown, the longitudinal ventilation channel 130 is aligned with an aperture 136 in each end wall 116 and is spaced from each end wall 116, but alternatively the channel 130 could extend through each end wall 116, i.e. such that it is open to each end of the crate 110. The longitudinal ventilation channel 130 includes a plurality of apertures 148 therethrough at an uppermost surface thereof (shown better in FIG. 11).

The base 112 further includes a plurality of lateral ventilation channels 132 that may branch perpendicularly from the longitudinal ventilation channel 130 as shown. The lateral ventilation channels 132 project upward relative to the upper support surface 113 of the base 112. The lateral ventilation channels 132 open downwardly of the crate 110 and extend from one side wall 114 to the other. In the embodiment shown, each lateral ventilation channel 132 is aligned with an aperture 142 in each side wall 114 and is spaced from each side wall 114, but alternatively the channel 132 could extend through each side wall 114, i.e. such that it is open to each side of the crate 110. Each lateral ventilation channel 132 includes a plurality of apertures 148 therethrough at an uppermost surface thereof (shown better in FIG. 11).

The longitudinal ventilation channel 130 and lateral ventilation channels 132 project upward relative to the upper support surface 113 of the base 112 and are arranged to be positioned between products, such as stacks of products, such as bags of meat, such as bags of chicken. The products are placed on the base 112 with a longitudinal ventilation channel 130 and/or lateral ventilation channels 132 between each adjacent pair of products, as shown in FIG. 16A. Products may be stacked in these positions defined by the longitudinal ventilation channel 130 and lateral ventilation channels 132. In this manner, ventilation can be delivered more evenly to the stacked products within the crate 110 through the channels 130, 132 and through the apertures 148. This useful for both rapid and even cooling or freezing of the products and for rapid and even thawing of the products. The channels 130, 132 and apertures 148 deliver ventilation between the stacks of product.

Additionally, the bottom wall of the base 112 has no openings therethrough and the openings through the end walls 116 and side walls 114 are raised to provide some retention of liquids in the base 112. The apertures 148 are raised above the bottom wall of the base 112, again so that the base 112 will retain liquids.

As shown in FIG. 12, the bails 118 are pivotable to a support position, with the bails 118 supported on the support surfaces 128 of the side wall 114 and with the support portions 120 spaced away from the end walls 116.

Referring to FIG. 12, the end walls 116 each include a portion 152 of reduced height compared to a corner portion 154 of each adjacent side wall 114. Similarly, each side wall 114 includes a central portion 150 of reduced height compared to the corner portion 154. The support surface 128 is formed on the corner portion 154.

FIG. 13 is an end view of the crate 110 of FIG. 12 with an identical crate 110 stacked thereon. The base 112 of the upper crate 110 is supported on the bails 118. This leaves a large ventilation gap between the base 112 of the upper crate 110 and the upper edge of the reduced height portion 152 of each end wall 116. As can also be seen in FIG. 13, an aperture 158 at each end of the longitudinal ventilation channel 130 is aligned with the aperture 136 through each end wall 116.

FIG. 14 is a side view of the crates 110 of FIG. 13. A large ventilation gap is provided between the base 112 of the upper crate 110 and the upper edge of the reduced height portion 150 of each side wall 114. As can be seen in FIGS. 14 and 15, an aperture 160 at each end of each lateral ventilation channel 132 is aligned with an aperture 142 through each side wall 114.

FIG. 16 is a section view taken laterally through the stacked crates 110. As shown the longitudinal ventilation channel 130 opens downwardly of the base 112 along its entire length. The aperture 158 at each end of the longitudinal ventilation channel 130 aligns with the aperture 136 through the end wall 116. The lateral ventilation channels 132 also open downwardly. The lateral ventilation channels 132 and longitudinal ventilation channel 130 are both completely open downward along their entire lengths. As can be seen in FIG. 16, without the bails 118 in the deployed position, the lower portion 126 of the upper crate 110 would nest inside the upper portion 127 of the lower crate 110.

FIG. 16A shows the stacked crates 110 of FIG. 16 with a plurality of bags 80 stored therein. The longitudinal ventilation channel 130 and the lateral ventilation channels 132 are between the stacks of bags 80 on the base 112.

FIG. 17 is a top view of the crate 110 of FIG. 12, i.e. with the bails 118 in the deployed, support position over the base 112.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the crates 110 but with the bails 118 in the retracted position on the end walls 116. In this position, the lower portion 126 of the upper crate 110 is nested within the upper portion 127 of the lower crate 110 and the overall height is significantly reduced. This position would be used when the crates 110 are empty and being stored or shipped.

A crate 210 according to a third embodiment is shown in FIG. 19. Referring to FIG. 19, the crate 210 is a collapsible crate 210 having a base 212 having side walls 214 and end walls 216 pivotably connected to a periphery thereof. Latches 218 selectively secure end walls 216 to adjacent side walls 214.

Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, the base 212 includes a longitudinal ventilation channel 230, which opens downwardly of the crate 210 and extends in the center of the crate 210 from one end wall 216 to the other. In the embodiment shown, the longitudinal ventilation channel 230 is aligned with an aperture 236 in each end wall 216 and is spaced from each end wall 216, but alternatively the channel 230 could extend through each end wall 216, i.e. such that it is open to each end of the crate 210. The longitudinal ventilation channel 230 includes a plurality of apertures 248 therethrough at an uppermost surface thereof (shown better in FIG. 20).

The base 212 further includes a plurality of lateral ventilation channels 232 that may branch perpendicularly from the longitudinal ventilation channel 230 as shown. The lateral ventilation channels 232 open downwardly of the crate 210 and extend from one side wall 214 to the other. In the embodiment shown, each lateral ventilation channel 232 is aligned with an aperture 242 in each side wall 214 and is spaced from each side wall 214. Each lateral ventilation channel 232 includes a plurality of apertures 248 therethrough at an uppermost surface thereof (shown better in FIG. 11).

The longitudinal ventilation channel 230 and lateral ventilation channels 232 project upward relative to the upper support surface 213 of the base 212 and are arranged to be positioned between products, such as stacks of products, such as bags of meat, such as bags of chicken. The products are placed on the base 212 with a longitudinal ventilation channel 230 and/or lateral ventilation channels 232 between each adjacent pair of products as shown in FIG. 24A. Products may be stacked in these positions defined by the longitudinal ventilation channel 230 and lateral ventilation channels 232. In this manner, ventilation can be delivered more evenly to the stacked products within the crate 210 through the channels 230, 232 and through the apertures 248. This useful for both rapid and even cooling or freezing of the products and for rapid and even thawing of the products. The channels 230, 232 and apertures 248 deliver ventilation between the stacks of product.

Additionally, the bottom wall of the base 212 has no openings therethrough and the openings through the end walls 216 and side walls 214 (for ventilation or for the hinges) are raised to provide some retention of liquids in the base 212. The apertures 248 are raised above the bottom wall of the base 212, again so that the base 212 will retain liquids.

Handle openings 240 are formed through each end wall 216. Handle openings 244 are formed through each side wall 214.

FIG. 21 is an end view of the crate 210 of FIG. 19 with an identical crate 210 stacked thereon. The base 212 of the upper crate 210 is supported on the side walls 214 and end walls 216 of the lower crate 210. Many ventilation apertures are formed through the end walls 216. As can also be seen in FIG. 21, an aperture 258 at each end of the longitudinal ventilation channel 230 is aligned with the aperture 236 through each end wall 216.

FIG. 22 is a side view of the crates 210 of FIG. 21. As can be seen in FIGS. 22 and 23, an aperture 260 at each end of each lateral ventilation channel 232 is aligned with an aperture 242 through an upstanding portion of the base 212 under each side wall 214.

FIG. 24 is a section view taken laterally through the stacked crates 210. As shown the longitudinal ventilation channel 230 opens downwardly of the base 212 along its entire length. The aperture 258 at each end of the longitudinal ventilation channel 230 aligns with the aperture 236 through the end wall 216. The lateral ventilation channels 232 also open downwardly. The lateral ventilation channels 232 and longitudinal ventilation channel 230 are both completely open downward along their entire lengths.

FIG. 24A shows the stacked crates 210 of FIG. 24 with a plurality of bags 80 stored therein. The longitudinal ventilation channel 230 and the lateral ventilation channels 232 are between the stacks of bags 80 on the base 212.

FIG. 25 is a top view of the crate 210 of FIG. 19.

FIG. 26 is a bottom perspective view of the crate 210 showing the ventilation channels 230, 232 opening downward of the base 212 (i.e. concave facing downward).

FIG. 27 shows the crate 210 with the end walls 216 and side walls 214 collapsed onto the base 212. In this position, the overall height is significantly reduced. This position would be used when the crates 210 are empty and being stored or shipped. In this embodiment, the side walls 214 are collapsed onto the base 212 first and the side walls 214 do not overlap the lateral ventilation channels 232. The end walls 216 are then collapsed onto the side walls 214 and the longitudinal ventilation channel 230.

A crate 310 according to a fourth embodiment is shown in FIG. 28. The crate 310 is a stackable crate 310 having a base 312 integrally molded with side walls 314 and end walls 316. A support or bail 318 is pivotably secured to both side walls 314 adjacent each end wall 316. In FIG. 28, the bails 318 are shown in their retracted or home position. Each bail 318 includes a support portion 320 extending from one side wall 314 to the other. Each bail 318 includes an arm 322 projecting from each end of the support portion 320. Lower ends of the arms 322 are pivotably secured to the side walls 314. The arms 322 are captured between an outer wall portion 326 and an inner wall portion 324 of the side walls 314. The bails 318 can be pivoted onto support surfaces 328 at the upper surface of the side walls 314.

Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, the base 312 includes a longitudinal ventilation channel 330, which opens downwardly of the crate 310, protrudes upward relative to the remainder of the base 312, and extends in the center of the crate 310 from one end wall 316 to the other. In the embodiment shown, the longitudinal ventilation channel 330 extends to an aperture 336 in each end wall 316 such that it is open through each end wall 16 of the crate 310. The longitudinal ventilation channel 330 includes a plurality of elongated apertures 348 therethrough at an uppermost surface thereof (shown better in FIG. 29).

The base 312 further includes a plurality of lateral ventilation channels 332 that may branch perpendicularly from the longitudinal ventilation channel 330 as shown. The lateral ventilation channels 332 open downwardly of the crate 310, project upward from the remainder of the base 312, and extend from one side wall 314 to the other. In the embodiment shown, each lateral ventilation channel 332 connects to each side wall 314, such that it opens through an aperture 342 through each side wall 314 of the crate 310. Each lateral ventilation channel 332 includes a plurality of elongated apertures 348 therethrough at an uppermost surface thereof (shown better in FIG. 29).

The longitudinal ventilation channel 330 and lateral ventilation channels 332 are arranged to be positioned between products, such as stacks of products, such as bags of meat, such as bags of chicken (as shown in FIG. 34A). The products are placed on the base 312 with a longitudinal ventilation channel 330 and/or lateral ventilation channels 332 between each adjacent pair of products. Products may be stacked in these positions defined by the longitudinal ventilation channel 330 and lateral ventilation channels 332. In this manner, ventilation can be delivered more evenly to the stacked products within the crate 310 through the channels 330, 332 and through the apertures 348. This useful for both rapid and even cooling or freezing of the products and for rapid and even thawing of the products. The channels 330, 332 and apertures 348 deliver ventilation between the stacks of product.

The base 312 also includes lateral support channels 338 protruding upward less than the ventilation channels 330, 332. The lateral support channels 338 align with the bails 318 when the bails 318 are in the support position.

Additionally, the bottom wall of the base 312 has no openings therethrough and the openings through the end walls 316 and side walls 314 (for ventilation or for the hinges) are raised to provide some retention of liquids in the base 312. The apertures 348 are raised above the bottom wall of the base 312, again so that the base 312 will retain liquids.

Handle openings 340 are formed through each end wall 316. Handle openings 341 are formed through each side wall 314.

As shown in FIG. 30, the bails 318 are pivotable to a support position, with the bails 318 supported on the support surfaces 328 of the side wall 314 and with the support portions 320 spaced away from the end walls 316.

Referring to FIG. 30, the end walls 316 each include a portion 352 of reduced height compared to a corner portion 354 of each adjacent side wall 314. Similarly, each side wall 314 includes a central portion 350 of reduced height compared to the corner portion 354. The support surface 328 is formed on the corner portion 354.

FIG. 31 is an end view of the crate 310. The opposite end would appear the same. As shown, the longitudinal channel 330 extends through the aperture 336 through the end wall 316. The base 312 is a single-wall base 312 that extends to be the lowermost surface of the crate 310.

FIG. 32 is a side view of the crate 310. The opposite side would appear the same. The lateral channels 332 extend through the aperture 342 through the side wall 314. The single-wall base 312 is the lowermost surface of the crate 310, but there are corner recesses 362 aligned below the corner portions 354 of the side wall 314.

FIG. 33 is a top view of the crate 310 with the bails 318 in the deployed or support position, i.e. spaced away from their respective end walls 316. FIG. 34 is a top view of the crate 310 with the bails 318 in the home or retracted position on the end walls 316.

FIG. 34A shows the crate 310 of FIG. 34 with a plurality of bags 80 stored therein.

FIG. 35 is a bottom perspective view of the crate 310. Again, the single-wall base 312 is the lowermost surface of the crate 310, providing a substantially smooth bottom surface, without ribs or other protrusions that might contact items in a crate stacked below, like bags of chicken. The longitudinal ventilation channel 330 extends from end to end of the base 312. The lateral ventilation channels 332 extend from side to side of the base 312. The support channels 338 extend from side to side of the base 312. The lateral ventilation channels 332 and longitudinal ventilation channel 330 are both completely open downward along their entire lengths. The support channels 338 are also completely open downward along their entire lengths.

FIG. 36 is a bottom view of the crate 310.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the crate 310 of FIG. 30, i.e. with the bails 318 in the support position, with an identical crate stacked thereon. The bails 318 of the lower crate 310 are received in the support channels 338 of the base 312 of the upper crate 310. This restrains relative motion of the two crates 310 in the longitudinal direction. With the upper crate 310 supported on the bails 318, there are large gaps between the side walls 314 and end walls 316 of the upper crate 310 and the side walls 314 and end walls 316 of the lower crate 310, respectively.

FIG. 38 is a side view of the crates 310 of FIG. 37. A large ventilation gap is provided between the base 312 of the upper crate 310 and the upper edge of the reduced height portion 350 of each side wall 314. Each lateral ventilation channel 332 extends through an aperture 342 through each side wall 314. Ventilation can pass through the large ventilation gap and air can pass through the ventilation channels 332 into interior points in the crate 310, such as between the stacks of bags of chicken.

FIG. 39 is an end view of the crates 310 of FIG. 37. A large ventilation gap is provided between the base 312 of the upper crate 310 and the upper edge of the reduced height portion 352 of each end wall 316. The longitudinal ventilation channel 330 extends through the aperture 336 through each end wall 316. Ventilation can pass through the large ventilation gap and air can pass through the ventilation channel 330 into interior points in the crate 310, such as between the stacks of bags of chicken.

FIG. 40 is a partial section view through the stacked crates 310. The bails 318 each include a pair of nubs 364 projecting upward proximate the intersection of the arm and the support portion 320 when the bail 318 is in the deployed, support position. Each nub 364 is received in one of the recesses 362 of the upper crate 310. The nub 310 abuts the base 312 adjacent the recess 362, thus preventing relative lateral movement by the crates 310. This is also shown in FIG. 41.

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of the stacked crates 310 but with the bails 318 in the retracted position on the end walls 316. In this position, the height of the two stacked crates 310 is reduced and the end and side ventilation gaps are reduced. This position would be used when the crates 310 are empty and being stored or shipped.

FIG. 43 is a side view of the crates 310 of FIG. 42. As shown, the corner portions 354 of the lower crate 310 are received in the recesses 362 of the upper crate 310 and the lower portion of the side wall 314 of the upper crate 310 is received adjacent the reduced height portion 350 of the lower crate 310. FIG. 44 is an end view of the crates 310 of FIG. 42.

In accordance with the provisions of the patent statutes and jurisprudence, exemplary configurations described above are considered to represent preferred embodiments of the inventions. However, it should be noted that the inventions can be practiced otherwise than as specifically illustrated and described without departing from its spirit or scope. Alphanumeric identifiers on method steps are solely for ease in reference in dependent claims and such identifiers by themselves do not signify a required sequence of performance, unless otherwise explicitly specified. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A crate comprising: a base, a plurality of ventilation channels formed in the base, wherein the ventilation channels project upward relative to an upper support surface of the base, wherein the ventilation channels include apertures therethrough; and a plurality of walls extending upward from the base.
 2. The crate of claim 1 wherein the plurality of ventilation channels include a longitudinal ventilation channel and a lateral ventilation channel crossing the longitudinal ventilation channel.
 3. The crate of claim 2 further including a plurality of packages on the upper support surface of the base between the ventilation channels.
 4. The crate of claim 1 wherein the ventilation channels open downward of the base.
 5. The crate of claim 1 further including a bail having a support portion and a pair of arms extending from the support portion, wherein the pair of arms are pivotably connected to the plurality of walls and pivotable between a support position over the base and a retracted position.
 6. The crate of claim 5 further including a support channel defining a recess on a bottom surface of the base, wherein the support channel is aligned with the support portion of the bail when the bail is in the support position.
 7. The crate of claim 5 wherein the plurality of walls include corner portions, wherein the bail is supported on the corner portions when in the retracted position, wherein the plurality of walls include portions of reduced height relative to the corner portions.
 8. The crate of claim 7 wherein each of the plurality of walls includes one of the portions of reduced height.
 9. The crate of claim 8 wherein the plurality of walls includes handle openings therethrough.
 10. The crate of claim 7 wherein the plurality of walls include corner recesses aligned below the corner portions, such that the corner portions of the crate would be received in the corner recesses of an identical crate stacked thereon.
 11. The crate of claim 1 wherein the plurality of walls are hingeably connected to the base and pivotable between an upright position and a collapsed position on the base.
 12. The crate of claim 1 wherein the plurality of ventilation channels include an end aperture aligned with an aperture through one of the plurality of walls.
 13. The crate of claim 1 wherein the ventilation channels extend completely across the base and are open on opposed edges of the base.
 14. The crate of claim 1 wherein the plurality of walls include an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the lower portion is configured to be received in the upper portion of an identical crate.
 15. A crate comprising: a base, a longitudinal ventilation channel formed in the base and extending from a first end edge of the base to a second end edge of the base, a pair of lateral ventilation channels formed in the base and extending from a first side edge of the base to a second side edge of the base, the longitudinal ventilation channel and the lateral ventilation channels including apertures therethrough; a pair of side walls extending upward from the side edges of the base; and a pair of end walls extending upward from the end edges of the base.
 16. The crate of claim 15 wherein the longitudinal ventilation channel and the pair of lateral ventilation channels are open downward of the crate across their entire length.
 17. The crate of claim 15 wherein the longitudinal ventilation channel and the lateral ventilation channels divide the base into a 2×3 array of support areas.
 18. The crate of claim 15 wherein the pair of side walls includes corner portions and portions wherein uppermost surfaces have reduced height relative to the corner portions.
 19. The crate of claim 18 wherein each of the pair of side walls includes one of the portions of reduced height.
 20. The crate of claim 19 wherein the pair of end walls includes handle openings therethrough.
 21. The crate of claim 18 wherein the pair of side walls include corner recesses aligned below the corner portions, such that the corner portions of the crate would be received in the corner recesses of an identical crate stacked thereon.
 22. The crate of claim 15 wherein the longitudinal ventilation channel and the pair of lateral ventilation channels project upward relative to an upper support surface of the base and wherein the upper support surface of the base does not have any openings therethrough. 